I would have purchased that SA dagger in that condition, for $200 all day long. Sometimes, it's the history of a piece, just to have existed in that time period that makes value. In my experience, most SA daggers are just plain fun to own and do what we used to call the "Bernie fondle" to them every now and again. I've had a couple of SA's in my life and sooner or later, they are all collectible, at all price ranges. One of my most mint, a XX marked, I think Wolfe? is my personal favorite.
Some of the best and rarest daggers never see the public eye. Good dealers know, much more often then not, who is looking for what and make notes of it. The dealer finds the piece the buyer wants and makes the phone call. It happened to me several times.
Interesting thread. Good opinions on all points of view shared.
Mark
